Glasgow vintage fashion

by Laurentia Bulbuc

Since its opening in June 2019, Frida and Coco Vintage Store & Art Gallery has thrived under the passionate ownership of Louise Lawn. After spending several years as a high school art teacher, Louise felt the urge for a career change. Driven by her love for art, fashion, and shopping, she decided to pursue her childhood dream of owning her own vintage store combined with an art gallery. This courageous leap of faith has paid off, as Frida and Coco has become a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike.

Step into the store, and you'll find a treasure trove of fashion from various eras. From casual t-shirts to elegant 60s and 70s style dresses, Frida and Coco has something to suit every taste. The boutique also boasts an impressive collection of one-of-a-kind bags and jewellery, some of which are handcrafted by Louise herself. While Frida and Coco does occasionally stock designer items, they tend to fly off the shelves quickly due to their rarity and allure.

Louise said: “ I am always attracted to fashion magazines, all the fashion programmes and anything that’s sparkly and shiny. Without being arrogant I really want my shop to be like no other place. I am not trying to copy anyone else and I have not seen another shop like it. ‘

Louise sources the items she sells in a variety of ways, ensuring a diverse and ever-changing inventory. Some pieces are from her personal collection, carefully chosen to find new homes where they will be appreciated. Others are discovered at vintage clothing fairs, kilo sales, and quirky shops, adding a touch of uniqueness to the store's offerings. Additionally, generous friends and loyal customers have contributed to the store by donating their well-loved vintage pieces, creating an inclusive and community-driven atmosphere.

The significance of the store's name goes beyond simply being named after Louise's cats. Frida pays homage to the iconic Mexican painter Frida Kahlo, a symbol of strength, resilience, and unapologetic self-expression. Similarly, Coco is a tribute to the legendary French fashion designer Coco Chanel, who revolutionized women's fashion and empowered them to embrace their individuality. Both Frida Kahlo and Coco Chanel serve as inspirations to Louise, reminding her to remain true to her own artistic vision and to celebrate the uniqueness in every person who steps through the doors of Frida and Coco.

After re-evaluating her life, Louise decided to follow her passion for vintage fashion and open her own store, 'Frida and Coco'. The name of the store was inspired by two influential female artists, Frida Kahlo and Coco Chanel, who both embodied individuality and self-expression through their unique style.

Located on High Street, 'Frida and Coco' is a heaven for fashion enthusiasts who appreciate the craftsmanship and history behind each vintage piece. The store is filled with racks of carefully curated clothing, from glamorous evening gowns to quirky accessories. Every item has a story to tell, and Louise takes pride in the fact that her store allows customers to connect with the past through fashion.

Louise said: “ I have been very lucky recently as I have sold a few things to the Indiana Jones movie and to BBC1. We are all just trying to recover now from all the terrible things that have happened like Covid and energy crises. Customer spending is totally different. “

In addition to selling vintage clothing, 'Frida and Coco' also offers styling services to help customers create their own vintage-inspired looks. Louise believes that everyone deserves to feel confident and empowered in their own skin, and she is dedicated to helping her customers find the perfect outfit that makes them feel like the best version of themselves.

The success of 'Frida and Coco' is not just measured by its popularity among customers, but also by the sense of community it has created. Louise regularly hosts events and workshops in the store, inviting local artists and designers to showcase their work and share their expertise. She believes in supporting local talent and fostering a sense of camaraderie among like-minded individuals.

In the future, Louise hopes to expand 'Frida and Coco' to include an online store, reaching customers beyond Glasgow and sharing her love for vintage fashion on a global scale. She envisions a community of fashion lovers who can connect and inspire each other through their shared appreciation for timeless style. Tuesday to Saturday, from 11 a.m., are the typical operating hours for the store. This allows customers plenty of time to peruse the racks, admire the artwork, and engage in friendly conversations with Louise, who is always happy to share stories and insights about the store's merchandise.